How to Book Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain Together
How to Book Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain Together
How to book Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain together is a question many travelers ask when planning an adventure to Peru’s most iconic archaeological site. Both peaks offer unique perspectives and challenging hikes, but securing a spot for both can be tricky due to limited permits and high demand. If you’re aiming to maximize your visit by hiking both, understanding the booking process is crucial.
Understanding the Two Iconic Peaks
Before jumping into the booking process, it’s essential to know the differences between Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain.
– Huayna Picchu is the sharp, dramatic peak that forms the classic backdrop in most photos of Machu Picchu. The hike is steep and narrow, with several sections requiring the use of handrails or ropes, but the reward is a breathtaking bird’s-eye view over the citadel.
– Machu Picchu Mountain (Montaña Machu Picchu) stands opposite Huayna Picchu. Its trail is wider, less precipitous, and offers panoramic vistas of the entire region as well as the ruins below.
Both hikes require a separate ticket, and due to conservation efforts, only a limited number of visitors are allowed to hike each daily.
Why Book Both Peaks in Advance?
Permits for Huayna Picchu especially, but also Machu Picchu Mountain, sell out weeks or even months in advance—particularly in peak season (May to September). The Peruvian government has set daily quotas (generally 200 for Huayna Picchu and 400 for Machu Picchu Mountain).
Booking in advance not only guarantees your entry but also allows you to properly organize your itinerary, ensuring you don’t miss out on hiking these celebrated summits.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Book Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain Together
1. Visit the Official Machu Picchu Ticket Website
Begin your booking by visiting the official government portal: www.machupicchu.gob.pe. It’s strongly advisable to use the official site to avoid scams or inflated ticket prices from third-party operators.
Note: The site is only in Spanish, but most web browsers offer translation features.
2. Check the Availability
Use the “Consultas de Disponibilidad” or “Availability” section to check the available dates for both Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain. Select the date you wish to visit and see how many permits are left for each peak.
3. Select Your Ticket Type
You have several ticket options:
– Machu Picchu + Huayna Picchu
– Machu Picchu + Montaña (Machu Picchu Mountain)
Currently, the official regulations do not allow booking a single ticket that includes access to both Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain on the same day. You must purchase two separate combination tickets for consecutive days if you wish to hike both. Alternatively, you can visit Machu Picchu twice: once paired with Huayna Picchu, and again with Machu Picchu Mountain.
4. Book for Multiple Days
If your goal is to hike both peaks, plan a two-day visit. Purchase:
– Day One: Machu Picchu + Huayna Picchu ticket
– Day Two: Machu Picchu + Montaña Machu Picchu ticket
After selecting the dates and ticket types, proceed with completing your personal details.
5. Make the Payment
After inputting your information, you’ll receive a reservation code and instructions for payment. Typically, you have a short window (usually 3 hours) to complete payment via credit card or at authorized banks in Peru. After you pay, you’ll be able to download your official entrance tickets.
6. Confirm Your Bookings
Print your tickets or save them digitally to present upon arrival. You’ll also need an original passport for entry.
Making the Most of Your Experience
Spending two days is a blessing in disguise. Not only does it let you hike both mountains, but it also means you get to enjoy Machu Picchu at different times—catching varying light and moods.
Many travelers opt to stay overnight in Aguas Calientes, the town at Machu Picchu’s base. This gives you flexibility and allows for an early start each morning—highly recommended for both hikes, as the midday sun can be intense and crowds grow through the day.
What to Keep in Mind When Booking Both Hikes
– Fitness Requirements: Both hikes are strenuous and require a good level of fitness. Huayna Picchu is steeper and more exposed; Machu Picchu Mountain is longer, though generally less vertiginous.
– Acclimatization: Allow time to acclimatize to the high altitude before tackling either peak, preferably spending a few days in Cusco beforehand.
– Weather: Best hiking months are April through October. November to March corresponds to the rainy season, with trails getting slippery.
– Entry Times: Each hike has fixed entry slots—Huayna Picchu has early morning and late morning groups, whereas Machu Picchu Mountain typically allows entry up to 11am.
– Guide Requirement: You are not required to hike with a guide, though many choose to hire one for a deeper experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I hike both Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain on the same day?
No, due to current regulations, you must book each hike on a separate day. Each ticket allows only one peak in addition to Machu Picchu itself.
2. How far in advance should I book my tickets?
In high season, it’s wise to book at least 2-3 months in advance, especially for Huayna Picchu, which is the most popular.
3. What is the difficulty level of each hike?
Huayna Picchu is shorter but steeper and may be challenging if you’re afraid of heights. Machu Picchu Mountain is longer but with a steady ascent.
4. Do I need a guide for the hikes?
Guides are optional for the mountain hikes but are required for your entry into the main Machu Picchu citadel (for your first entry).
5. Can I buy tickets through tour operators or hotels?
Yes, but make sure they are reputable. The safest way is through the official government website.
6. What should I bring for the hikes?
Sturdy hiking shoes, sun protection, rain gear (in the wet season), water, and snacks are essential. Passport is required for entry.
7. Are children allowed on the hikes?
Minimum age for Huayna Picchu is generally 12 years old. Machu Picchu Mountain is more suitable for families with children over 7.
8. Is there a refund policy if I can’t make the hike?
Tickets are generally non-refundable, so plan carefully and ensure you’re able to be there on the dates you select.
Exploring both Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain is a dream for hikers and history lovers alike. With good planning and timely bookings, you can enjoy two of the best vantage points in the ancient Inca world.
